WHAT IS TMJ?

The temporomandibular joints connect the lower jaw to the temporal bone. These joints, along with their muscles, ligaments, and tendons, collaborate to facilitate oral functions like chewing, speaking, and yawning. The TMJ has a soft disc that acts as a shock absorber, ensuring smooth movements in all directions between the lower jaw and the temporal bone. Given its complexity, the TMJ is often regarded as one of the most difficult joints to address when problems occur.

Different Types and Symptoms of TMJ Disorders

TMJ disorders can be categorized into three groups:

Myofascial pain, which is characterized by discomfort in the jaw joint area due to increased muscle tension and spasms caused by various factors.
Internal derangement, which refers to the displacement of the disc, dislocation of the jaw, or trauma to the jaw condyles.
Arthritis, a degenerative joint disease.

The risk of developing a TMJ problem is higher for individuals who grind their teeth or have bruxism for a prolonged period, have experienced a jaw injury, or have certain types of arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis. Some of the major symptoms of TMJ disorders include the following:

Pain in the jaw, face, or neck
Stiffness in the jaw muscles
Difficulty opening or closing the mouth
Jaw clicking or popping
Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact our dental team at Discover Dental Rocklin. We believe that early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent the symptoms from worsening.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Are you suffering from Jaw Pain? Don't Grind Your Way Through Life! Discover Dental Rocklin offers transformative TMJ treatment options in Rocklin, CA, from diagnosis to relief. The dentist will conduct a comprehensive assessment of joint symptoms and function to identify any potential TMJ disorder. If necessary, additional diagnostic tests, such as specialized radiographic imaging, may be requested. Treatment options can involve using oral appliances like night guards or stabilization splints to alleviate stress on the joints. Other therapeutic approaches include using laser treatment & Botox therapy for treating TMJ disorders. Laser treatment works by removing damaged cells, reducing oxidative stress, and promoting the survival of healthy cells. This double action helps to decrease inflammation and promote healing, ultimately leading to a more comfortable, functional jaw. Botox works by gently relaxing muscles. In the case of TMJ, this can significantly reduce tightness and ease pain. While Botox is often used alongside other TMJ therapies, for some patients, it may be the key to feeling better.

Why Choose MLS Laser Therapy?

The MLS laser employed in our practice is a state-of-the-art, non-invasive soft tissue laser designed to address TMJ-related pain and discomfort. Here's why it's a game-changer:
- The MLS laser works wonders by reducing pain and inflammation in the affected areas. Say goodbye to discomfort and embrace a life with less pain.
- Experience accelerated cell repair as the laser stimulates cellular activity, promoting natural healing processes. Witness the rejuvenation of your jaw and surrounding muscles.

Why Opt for Botox at Discover Dental Rocklin?

- Unwind and relax as Botox helps alleviate the tension and pain associated with TMJ disorders. Experience immediate relief, allowing you to reclaim comfort in your daily life.
- Bid farewell to the discomfort of bruxism (teeth grinding) with targeted Botox injections. By reducing muscle activity, we address the root cause and enhance your oral well-being.

To alleviate TMJ disorder symptoms, self-care methods can be helpful. Patients are advised to consume soft foods, avoid excessive jaw movements, practice stress reduction and relaxation techniques, and apply ice packs or moist heat as instructed. If recommended, patients should also follow gentle stretching exercises provided by the dentist or therapist. Over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and pain medications may provide temporary relief. If these are not effective, the dentist or physician may prescribe stronger pain or anti-inflammatory medications, muscle relaxants, or anti-depressants.

Ready to break free from the shackles of TMJ pain? Experience the transformative power of MLS Laser Therapy at Discover Dental Rocklin. Say goodbye to discomfort and embrace a life of renewed vitality. Click below to schedule your MLS Laser Therapy session now and unlock the path to a brighter, pain-free future! Your journey to a pain-free existence begins now! Schedule your Botox consultation and step into a world of enhanced well-being.